If you’ve had the pleasure of visiting Ireland, you’ll be aware that it is a place rich with sights and activities. The breathtaking countryside with its lush green fields and hillsides is enough to mesmerize even the most discerning traveler. And the quaint old towns, full of charm and character, will undoubtedly make any visitor fall in love with all that this beautiful country has to offer. No matter where you go in Ireland, you will be able to see a castle, or at least its ruins. These ancient remains can be seen scattered all over the country; they are located in cities and towns, on top of hills and mountains, beside rivers and streams, in the middle of fields and farms, within graveyards and cemeteries as well as even close by houses. Everywhere you look there is something from the past awaiting discovery!
In fact, there are more than 1400 ruins including castles, abbeys, churches, ancient sites, houses, mills, and other historic structures spread all over the country (including Northern Ireland). These breathtaking castles were once grand residences or sturdy fortifications which have stood the test of time since the middle ages. Many still remain today as awe-inspiring monuments to a bygone era. Despite their captivating, fairytale-like appearance, many historical buildings and old castles in the UK have been left neglected and are now lying in a state of disrepair due to an absence of resources. Not only do these majestic structures carry stories of grandeur but also tales of horror, tragedy, and legendary misfortunes from centuries past. Undeniably there is a strange beauty to be found within those ancient stone walls; something that can not be compared with modern construction.
We find these obscured, fatigued defunct buildings all the more bewitching, for among the deterioration caused by time, the rugged structures still offer a complex beauty. Defies disintegration, drawing our attention toward its originally crafted intricate detailing. How can you not marvel at an impressive structure from the 16th century, before the invention of modern technology and machinery? Here are 4 abandoned castles in Ireland and the stories behind them.
1. Kinbane Castle – Northern Ireland
Situated in the picturesque county of Antrim, Northern Ireland, Kinbane Castle is perched atop a striking limestone headland that lies between the towns of Ballycastle and Ballintoy. The name of this majestic fortress is derived from the Irish phrase ‘Cean Bán’ which translates to ‘white head’, aptly reflecting its unique location on the rugged coast. In the year 1547, Colla MacDonnell erected a castle, with two storeys, atop a headland. Unfortunately, Sir James Croft’s English sieges in the 1550s dealt heavy damage to it and caused partial destruction. Colla MacDonnell, who died at the castle in 1558, inherited McDonnell Castle and left it to his son Gillaspick. Despite being extensively damaged and ultimately rebuild, traces of McDonnell Castle’s original structure remain evident in images that offer a glimpse of what it possibly looked like in the past. This green, beautiful and antiquated castle—which has a noted affinity for rainfall –provides one with the quintessential vision of Ireland. Isolated, majestic, unspoiled, and immaculate it is sure to leave a lasting impression on even the most stoic mind.
2. Ballinskellig Castle – Ring of Kerry
Located near the town of Ballinskelligs on Ireland’s Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, sits a spectacular castle that is perched on the western shore of Ballinskelligs Bay. The structure lies on a thin sliver of land that is prone to severe erosion due to its coastal location and proximity to the sea. This picturesque fortress, located on a prominent and separate peninsula, is relatively diminutive in size. It stands as an enduring testament to the strength of its original builders, providing a unique insight into their defensive tactics and strategies. The MacCarthy Mórs constructed the castle during the 16th century with their aim being to protect the bay from pirates. Besides defense, they might also have had in view levying charges and other fees upon foreign trade vessels incoming through that port. Strategically too, it seemed like a technically plus point; The dramatic setting of the small courtyard is further enhanced by two sets of walls that encircle it, along with a few staircases leading up to different levels and windows intermittently placed around its perimeter. At first glance, it may not appear to be much, but on closer inspection, it reveals itself to be surprisingly impressive. This remarkable, diminutive edifice has been packed to the brim with activity and character. The turf on the upper stories gives the castle a feeling of vitality and adds to its carefree atmosphere – it’s almost like a playground. Ballinskellig Castle undoubtedly exudes an air of fun and excitement.
3. Ballycarbery Castle – Ring of Kerry
Ballycarbery Castle is an ancient castle located in County Kerry, Ireland, situated just three kilometers (2 mi) away from the town of Cahersiveen. Perched atop a grassy hill and overlooking the sea, the castle stands tall as a reminder of its storied past. Close by are two more forts – Cahergall Fort and Leacanabuile Fort – adding to the historic atmosphere that surrounds this majestic structure. Gazing around the area, you can observe the ongoing struggle between humanity’s fortification of Ballycarbery Castle and nature gradually being claimed by vegetation. It is intriguing to witness how something as large as this structure can be so gradually consumed by its natural surroundings. In its heyday, Ballycarbery Castle must have been an awe-inspiring sight, since even in its current state, it continues to exude a sense of intimidating power. This Castle is quite easy to locate, as it can be seen from the neighboring locations. A small dirt parking area, along with a plaque, is provided upon arrival at the place. It is generally suggested that one should take a counterclockwise direction when climbing the stairs to the main level; however, in this particular instance, due to some of the steps being missing, a little extra effort and ingenuity were necessary in order to ascend. Fortunately, it wasn’t overly difficult. The main level of the tower is so densely covered with lush green grass that it’s nearly impossible to discern where the floor ends. In one section, there is a gaping hole that offers a peek into what appears to be an expansive old hall in the basement. Unfortunately, the spectacular castle is now located on private land and access has been revoked by the owner, meaning that visitors are only able to appreciate its beauty from a distance. The nearest point of view is a small car park situated approximately 200 meters away from the front of the castle.
4. Rock of Dunamase – South West of Dublin
The ancient fortress of Rock of Dunamase, dating back to the 12th century and once marauded by Vikings, stands atop a flat plain with magnificent views of the idyllic countryside. Those brave enough have attempted to storm this castle throughout its long history, yet it remains standing as a timeless reminder of its storied past. The structure has been passed down through many generations, from the Normans to local Irish lords, and according to longstanding local tales, it was besieged and then ultimately destroyed by Cromwellian generals in 1651. Although there is no concrete evidence that corroborates this story, it appears to be the most plausible explanation for why the ruins of this building can still be explored today. Dunamase Castle, located just an hour from Dublin’s roads, is unfortunately visited by rather few people. At the start of the route stands a small signpost informing tourists of its story. Taking time to imagine its former glory is essential when visiting this castle to appreciate it fully. Fragmentary and toppled over, bits of what was once an impressive fortress can be found scattered across the hilltop. Forming a large life-sized puzzle, it’s not an easy climb with the stairs having been wiped away; however, a unique adventure of meandering through crumbly walls awaits. It’s easy to understand why this was an ideal location for building a settlement; the scenery visible from this point is breathtaking. For miles in every direction, a seemingly limitless expanse of land can be seen, transitioning through various seasonal phases and never failing to surprise with its beauty. The wind was making gentle ripples in the earth, its peacefulness disturbed by dark clouds that suddenly and swiftly rolled in, blotting out the light with a swiftness that was mesmerizing. It felt like one moment all was tranquil, then within an instant, it had changed to something entirely different.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the ruins of old English castles and medieval buildings can be an enchanting experience, offering an insight into the past that is both captivating and mesmerizing. Photographers and history buffs alike are drawn to these forgotten sites due to their rustic beauty; crumbling walls revealing a glimpse of what was once an important part of our nation’s heritage. Although many of these structures have been damaged beyond repair by the passage of time, there are still parts that remain intact, allowing us to imagine what life must have been like in centuries gone by. No matter the reason that brings you to explore the castles of Ireland, from their age-old stories to their newly sprouting vegetation, each castle possesses its own special charm. While it is certainly worth your time to visit some of the more renowned castles in this stunning country, be sure to make plans for seeing a few of those that have been abandoned and left untouched by time. You may be amazed at what surprises await you!
